Ground turkey meatballs bring comfort to your table with their savory flavors and succulent texture. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for families, making it a must-try for your dinner rotation.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Ground Turkey Meatballs
Key Ingredients Overview
To craft these delightful meatballs, you’ll need 1 1/2 pounds of ground turkey, seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Add some Worcestershire sauce and breadcrumbs to bind everything together. A large egg keeps the meatballs tender while they cook.
Optional Ingredients for Variation
Feel free to customize your meatballs by adding herbs like parsley or basil. You can also swap out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or oats for a different texture. This recipe is versatile and encourages creativity!
Preparing the Meatball Mixture
Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix with your hands until everything is evenly blended. This step is crucial for flavor!
Forming the Meatballs
Once mixed, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly on a fork. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you prepare to cook.
Cooking the Ground Turkey Meatballs
Browning the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, ensuring they brown nicely on all sides. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, remove and set aside.
Tips for Even Cooking
To achieve even cooking, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Let each meatball have space to brown and develop flavor. If necessary, adjust the heat to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.
Making the Creamy Gravy
Creating the Roux
In the same skillet, sauté 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt, then sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes.
Adding Broth and Seasonings
Gradually add 3 cups of water or chicken stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir in sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
Final Touches for Flavor
Return the meatballs to the skillet, gently coating them in the rich gravy. Allow them to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to reheat and absorb those wonderful flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Best Sides to Pair With Meatballs
Ground turkey meatballs are delightful served over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. These sides soak up the gravy beautifully, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Garnishing Ideas
For a pop of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Preparing Meatballs in Advance
You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights. Just remember to cover them well!
Freezing and Reheating Instructions
Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or on the stove.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for ground turkey meatballs?
You’ll need ground turkey, seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, and an egg to bind.
How do I ensure my ground turkey meatballs stay moist?
Use a mixture of ingredients like breadcrumbs and egg, and avoid overcooking the meatballs to keep them tender.
Can I freeze cooked ground turkey meatballs for later use?
Yes, cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.
What are some tasty sauces to serve with ground turkey meatballs?
Try serving them with marinara sauce, creamy gravy, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a delicious twist.
How long should I bake ground turkey meatballs for the best results?
If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Related Recipes to try
- Turkey Meatballs
- Ground Turkey Stir Fry
- Ground Turkey Rice Bowl
- Ground Turkey Pasta
- Ground Turkey Curry
- Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
Conclusion
These ground turkey meatballs are not only easy to make but also a hearty meal that your family will adore. For more inspiration, check out our Pinterest page for tips and ideas. You won’t regret trying this delicious recipe!
Ground Turkey Meatballs: Deliciously Easy and Family-Friendly
Equipment
- large bowl
- skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb. ground turkey
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- ½ tsp. smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp. cumin
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, diced
- 3 tbsp. butter
- 3 tbsp. flour
- 3 cups water or chicken stock
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp. cumin
- ¼ tsp. smoked paprika
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Mashed potatoes or egg noodles for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Combine ground turkey, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs in batches until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Sauté diced onion and garlic in the same skillet until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add butter and melt, then sprinkle flour over the mixture to form a roux.
- Gradually add water or chicken stock while stirring to prevent lumps and simmer until thickened.
- Stir in sour cream, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Return meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles and garnish with parsley.